Man Arrested For Video Voyeurism At Mardi Gras Parade

Mardi Gras has a reputation for being a bit bawdy at times. I am sure we can all regale friends with stories of things we've seen and things we wish we could unsee on the parade route. The assumption being that those sights were brought out into the open with full knowledge of the person or people who are seeking the attention.

This story is a tale of the creepier side of public gatherings, such as along a crowded parade route. During Sunday's Mardi Gras parades in New Orleans, a Texas man was arrested on charges of video voyeurism after a woman noticed him behaving in a very strange way.

The witness told New Orleans Police that she and two friends were enjoying the parades near St. Charles and Poydras when she noticed a man place a black bag down near the legs of one of her friends. She informed the friend and suggested they move. When they did the man moved the bag to a similar position near her legs. It was then the three women noticed the bag was open and there was a camera inside.

The women detained the man and called the police. According to court documents, Diego Figueroa of Rancho Viejo Texas was arrested and charged with one count of video voyeurism. His bond has been set at $5,000.

Let this be a cautionary tale for anyone who plans on attending a Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans, Lafayette, or anywhere for that matter. You must always be aware of your surroundings. If you simply focus on the parade you will miss what could be happening right behind your back or under your clothing if you're not careful.